Founded in 1979, Interfaith Community Services operates more than 75 programs supporting North County residents experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, addiction, mental health challenges, and poverty. The nonprofit collaborates with over 250 faith communities and regional agencies, and thousands of volunteers. In 2024, Interfaith served more than 20,000 people and prevented nearly 1,500 from falling into homelessness.
At the heart of its volunteer program is Maria Espinoza, who’s worked at Interfaith for five years and now serves as lead volunteer coordinator alongside Mary Covher. Together, they’re known affectionately as “the volundivas.” Last year, they mobilized more than 1,500 volunteers who logged nearly 29,000 hours of service.
We spoke with Espinoza about her role, what makes Interfaith’s youth summer program a success, and how volunteering has become a form of healing after loss.
What is your role?
Maria Espinoza (ME): At Interfaith, I get to wear the incredible hat of volunteer coordinator, which basically means I get to be the matchmaker, cheerleader, and biggest fan of our amazing volunteers. My job is to connect kindhearted humans with meaningful ways to make our little corner of the world a little brighter.
Every day for the last five years, I’ve met inspiring people from all walks of life: dreamers, doers, and everyone in between who wants to lend a hand and spread love. I help turn their passion into action, guiding them through projects and volunteer roles that truly matter.
Being a volunteer coordinator means I witness firsthand the magic that happens when human beings come together for a purpose. We’re not just helping people help themselves; we’re providing hope.
Tell us about the summer volunteer program.
ME: I kept hearing from volunteers and parents alike, “Do you have any volunteer opportunities my kiddo can do during summer break?” Instead of them just binge-watching shows, [endlessly telling us] “I’m bored!” or forever scrolling on their devices, we thought, Why not turn that boredom into something epic?
That’s how our Summer of Service Kids Edition was born last year, and it was a hit. This program is all about helping kids see how powerful their help can be and having a blast while doing it.
We have five super fun, one-hour shifts for kids to help with. The shifts can include the Pantry Party Crew, Lunch Bunch Legends, Snack Pack Heroes, Scoop Squad Rockstars, and Kindness Card Creators. And, after three shifts logged, they get an official Interfaith Summer Service Hours Certificate. How cool would that look on the fridge?
How did you originally get involved and why?
ME: I got involved through my sister, who started working at Interfaith shortly after my husband’s passing. Her journey inspired me, and I saw volunteering as a way to help my family find purpose and healing during an incredibly difficult time. Losing the father of my four kids was devastating, and I wanted to show them that even in our grief, there is hope and meaning.
PARTNER CONTENT
In June 2020, I took a leap and applied for the front desk position at Interfaith. From the very first moment I learned about what Interfaith does for the community, I knew I wanted to be part of it on a deeper level. Volunteering has become more than a way to help others; it’s a way for us to honor my husband’s beautiful spirit, his kindness, his generosity, and his big heart and to teach our children the importance of compassion and service.
What advice would you offer to individuals interested in volunteering?
ME: My best advice? Just jump in and try something that sparks your interest. Volunteering is all about giving back, but it should also feel good and fun, not like a chore. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone—sometimes the most unexpected volunteer roles become the most rewarding. And, remember, even a little time can make a big difference.
